Keeping in Touch

Staying in touch with your spouse, family and friends can boost morale and reduce stress, whether you're the one deployed or managing the home front. So, find out what communication tools are available, and schedule regular times to connect. Here are some tips for using common methods:

Mail

You can mail letters to each other, but be aware that mail service can be unpredictable and take weeks, depending on the location. Servicemembers and families should consider numbering personal letters in case they do not arrive in the order they were sent. You can also mail audio or videotapes.

Families may want to send occasional care packages to their service members with comforts from home. But avoid sending too many things that will need to be brought home. Servicemembers have limited space to store and carry personal items.

E-mail

Some deployment sites offer computers where service members can access the Internet — check with the command office for availability. Even still, e-mail access can be sporadic depending on satellite links and field location.

So, servicemembers and families should number e-mails just like the letters, and try not to worry if messages aren't returned promptly.

If you find that e-mail is a reliable way to communicate, you might also send digital photos or links to web sites where photos and videos can be stored.

Social Media

While servicemembers' access to popular civilian sites like MySpace and Facebook may be restricted during deployments, there are several military Web sites that give spouses or servicemembers the opportunity to post messages or detail their daily lives online. Many social networking sites can offer features that e-mail and phone calls can't capture, like the ability for the entire family to view the same content and post messages in a bulletin board format, and invite other friends to join in.

Phone

For service members, making direct calls or calling collect from a deployed location can be very expensive. So plan ahead to use a prepaid calling card with lower rates. Some bases also allow servicemembers to make limited free phone calls on the Defense Switched Network (DSN). Delays and spotty service are common complaints, especially with cell phones, so loved ones shouldn't worry if the connection is dropped. If you have voice mail, test it periodically to make sure it is working.

Spouses and family members at home can also use calling cards. Alternatively, some phone companies offer reduced rates to call military members directly overseas (subject to terms and restrictions).

Emergencies

Before you leave for deployment, create a communication plan for times when you and your family must get in touch. Decide on an alternative point of contact at home, such as a trusted friend or family member, in case either of you can't be reached. And make sure both parties have a list of all important phone numbers on hand. For family members who need to contact a deployed servicemember, there are several places you can go for information:

• The Family Readiness Group Leader or Ombudsman's office may offer instructions.
• The military may have set up a hotline for information on the servicemember's unit.
• Military chaplains may also offer assistance.
• The American Red Cross can send emergency messages to deployed servicemembers.
  

In any case, be prepared to provide the servicemember's name, rank, social security number and command/division information.

(from USAA)